When removing the ECU / ECM does it come out of the firewall on the engine compartment side or does the dash have to be removed? When a new ECU / ECM are installed does it have to be programmed? Do you know of any videos that show how to replace the ECU / ECM?
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Thursday, January 21st, 2016 AT 6:48 PM
10 Replies
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
20,758 POSTS
It comes out from the engine side.
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Thursday, January 21st, 2016 AT 6:49 PM
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
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Yes, it does have to be programmed in the vehicle before it will run.
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Thursday, January 21st, 2016 AT 6:50 PM
WORTHIN52
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35 POSTS
How difficult is that to do. Is it possible I can do that myself using my laptop? Do you know of any videos that explain how to program the computer?
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Thursday, January 21st, 2016 AT 7:50 PM
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
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No, you can't program. Mosty repair shops can't even do that.
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 1:58 AM
WORTHIN52
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That doesn’t make sense. Then how do you program a new ECU / ECM?
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 7:51 AM
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
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You first purchase a $10,000 scan tool. You then pay a subscription fee to the manufacturer to have access to the software and then you go to some very advanced training to learn how to do it without locking up the computer.
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 8:27 AM
WORTHIN52
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That’s insane! Do dealerships have the equipment and know how to program them? I’m guessing you would have to get a second mortgage on your home to pay for it.
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 8:54 AM
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
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Yes, the dealers all do that and the average cost is about $100. Even when most independent shops replace a computer, they have to tow it elsewhere to have it programmed.
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 8:56 AM
WORTHIN52
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If there is something wrong with the ECU / ECM. Is it possible that cold weather could cause problems?
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Friday, January 22nd, 2016 AT 9:04 AM
WRENCHTECH
MECHANIC
20,758 POSTS
I have no idea what issues you have with your car or computer. Like any electronic circuit board, the computer can be effected by temperature changes, but even if it is, that is still a defect in the computer.